Simply Science

What’s an urban forest? Jun 06, 2024

In this episode, we’re going to explore the world of urban forests and hear about how they can transform concrete jungles into vibrant livable spaces. We reached out to a couple of experts from the Canadian Forest Service to talk about the ins and outs of urban forest management. This episode is also a double feature, with our friends from the Statistics Canada podcast “Eh-sayers” talking about the ironies of data when it comes to the environment. Both stories share a common theme: “it’s not easy being green.” Recommended Links: • What trees should I plant in an urban forest? (Simply Science Video) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paRluAdUiAw • More Trees to Plant in an Urban Forest (Simply Science Video) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhq3O15LKZw • Download the My Tree app! (NRCan App) – https://natural-resources.canada.ca/our-natural-resources/forests/sustainable-forest-management/my-tree/19974

Is natural hydrogen the solution? Mar 11, 2024

There seems to be a lot of excitement about natural hydrogen lately. But why is the level of interest peaking now? Could it be part of the solution to the climate crisis? Is it the environmentally friendly game changer everyone is looking for? Or not? To answer those questions and more, we reached out to one of our hydrogen experts, as well as a scientist from the University of Toronto. Recommended Links: • Cleaner Digging with Hydrogen - https://natural-resources.canada.ca/simply-science/cleaner-digging-hydrogen/21757 • The Hydrogen Strategy - https://natural-resources.canada.ca/climate-change/canadas-green-future/the-hydrogen-strategy/23080

Managing our Carbon Emissions Sep 27, 2023

We, as human beings, find ourselves in a challenging situation when it comes to carbon emissions. Almost everything we do in our modern lives produces carbon emissions, which impact the very environment we live in. Is it possible to maintain our quality of life AND reduce our carbon emissions? Our scientists are working hard to address that issue. Listen to find out how. Recommended Links: • Carbon Management (Natural Resources Canada) - https://natural-resources.canada.ca/our-natural-resources/energy-sources-distribution/carbon-management/4275 • Environment and Climate Change Canada - https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change.html • Mission Innovation - http://mission-innovation.net/ Simply Science Website: www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg%3Fview_as%3Dsubscriber%253Fsub_confirmation%253D1&token=5be173-1-1594998865448 Simply Science on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NRCanScience Simply Science on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Simply-Science-580046026023390 Simply Science on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplysciencenrcan/ Simply Science on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/natural-resources-canada

The gold standard of mineral exploration Jun 13, 2023

We all know metals like gold, copper and nickel are essential to our way of life. Metals are used in just about everything. So how do we make sure that we have a continuous supply of these metals? How do you find new ore deposits to make sure we meet future demand? Our scientists are working hard to specifically address that issue. Listen to find out how. Recommended Links: • Geological Survey of Canada - https://natural-resources.canada.ca/science-and-data/research-centres-and-labs/geological-survey-canada/17100 • Geoscientists Canada - https://geoscientistscanada.ca/ • Prospector and Developers Association of Canada - https://www.pdac.ca/ • Quebec Mineral Exploration Association - https://aemq.org/en/ Simply Science Website: www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg%3Fview_as%3Dsubscriber%253Fsub_confirmation%253D1&token=5be173-1-1594998865448 Simply Science on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NRCanScience Simply Science on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Simply-Science-580046026023390 Simply Science on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplysciencenrcan/ Simply Science on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/natural-resources-canada

A heated conversation on heat pumps Feb 21, 2023

There’s nothing quite like a Canadian winter. Majestic scenery, fun outdoor activities, and brutally cold days that cause your heating bill to skyrocket. Scientists and engineers at Natural Resources Canada believe a promising technology can help reduce your energy consumption, the heat pump. On this episode: What are heat pumps? How do they work? Why is everyone talking about them? Are they right for you? Listen to find out. Recommended Links: • Heating and Cooling With a Heat Pump - https://natural-resources.canada.ca/energy-efficiency/energy-star-canada/about/energy-star-announcements/publications/heating-and-cooling-heat-pump/6817 • Adapting Heat Pumps to Our Canadian Climate (Simply Science Video) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=276AP6Uh5nU • The future of home heating: Hybrid home heating systems offer energy savings and reduce GHG emissions (Simply Science Article) - https://natural-resources.canada.ca/simply-science/the-future-home-heating-hybrid-home-heating-systems-offer-energy-savings-and-reduce-g/22236 Simply Science Website: www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg%3Fview_as%3Dsubscriber%253Fsub_confirmation%253D1&token=5be173-1-1594998865448 Simply Science on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NRCanScience Simply Science on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Simply-Science-580046026023390 Simply Science on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplysciencenrcan/ Simply Science on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/natural-resources-canada

The Smoking Hills May 03, 2022

In Cape Bathurst, where Canada's mainland meets the Arctic Ocean, an entire coastline is burning. Aptly named the Smoking Hills, it's home to a really unique geological feature: a deposit of sedimentary rock that's been burning and smouldering continuously for thousands of years. On this episode, we'll be speaking with a research scientist who visited the hellish landscape to study it first-hand. Recommended Links: New geological research in Canada’s Arctic provides clues about life on Mars - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/new-geological-research-canadas-arctic-provides-clues-about-life-on-mars/24273 How do you do research in the Arctic? (Simply Science Video) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QywOjkDjQa0 Making up for lost time in Canada’s Far North (Simply Science Article) - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/making-for-lost-time-canadas-far-north/24224 Simply Science Website: www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg%3Fview_as%3Dsubscriber%253Fsub_confirmation%253D1&token=5be173-1-1594998865448 Simply Science on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NRCanScience Simply Science on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Simply-Science-580046026023390 Simply Science on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplysciencenrcan/ Simply Science on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/natural-resources-canada

Earthquakes in Eastern Canada Mar 03, 2022

There are, on average, over 4,000 earthquakes in Canada each year. Many of those earthquakes occur in Western Canada, but Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic Provinces also see their fair share of seismic events. On this episode, we’ll be speaking with a seismologist who has spent over 30 years studying earthquakes in Eastern Canada. Recommended Links: Earthquakes Canada — https://earthquakescanada.nrcan.gc.ca/index-en.php The Great ShakeOut – https://www.shakeoutbc.ca/ Newspaper archives detail 1855 quake that shook the Maritimes (Simply Science Article) – https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/newspaper-archives-detail-1855-quake-shook-the-maritimes/21869 It takes only seconds to save lives (Simply Science Article) – https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/it-takes-only-seconds-save-lives/23896 Can We Predict Earthquakes? (Simply Science Podcast) – https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/can-we-predict-earthquakes-ask-nrcan/22377 Simply Science Website: www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg%3Fview_as%3Dsubscriber%253Fsub_confirmation%253D1&token=5be173-1-1594998865448 Simply Science on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NRCanScience Simply Science on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Simply-Science-580046026023390 Simply Science on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplysciencenrcan/ Simply Science on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/natural-resources-canada

Who can take on the spruce budworm? Oct 13, 2021

On this episode, we’re going to look at a real-life bug battle that rivals Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III! We have with us an entomologist — or bug expert — who’s going to break down this iconic matchup. Make sure to listen to find out which bug is brave enough to take on the spruce budworm. Recommended Links: • Bug fight: the emerald ash borer vs. parasitic wasps (Inspect and Protect podcast) — https://inspection.canada.ca/chronicle-360/inspect-and-protect-podcast/episode-4/eng/1633713369501/1633713370314 • Spruce Budworm (Natural Resources Canada) — https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/our-natural-resources/forests/wildland-fires-insects-disturbances/top-forest-insects-and-diseases-canada/spruce-budworm/13383 • Digging Up Dirt on the Spruce Budworm (Simply Science podcast) — https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/digging-dirt-on-the-spruce-budworm/22633 • Slowing Down the Spruce Budworm (Simply Science podcast) — https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/slowing-down-the-spruce-budworm-ask-nrcan/22113 • When ‘bringing your work home’ means ‘make room in the fridge’ (Simply Science article) — https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/when-bringing-your-work-home-means-make-room-the-fridge/23068 • Slowing Down the Spruce Budworm (Simply Science video) — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FAXH0JGLjA Simply Science Website: www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg%3Fview_as%3Dsubscriber%253Fsub_confirmation%253D1&token=5be173-1-1594998865448 Simply Science on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NRCanScience Simply Science on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Simply-Science-580046026023390 Simply Science on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplysciencenrcan/ Simply Science on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/natural-resources-canada

Reducing Methane Emissions Jun 29, 2021

We use methane every day to heat our homes, grow our food, create fertilizers and produce things like hydrogen that we use in clean fuel cells. But methane is a really potent greenhouse gas and a significant contributor to global warming. On this episode, we discuss what is methane, how we use it, and how we can reduce the amount we release in the atmosphere. Recommended Links: Emissions Reduction Fund (Natural Resources Canada) – https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/science-and-data/funding-partnerships/funding-opportunities/current-funding-opportunities/emissions-reduction-fund/22781 Environment and Climate Change Canada - https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change.html Climate and Clean Air Coalition (Methane) - https://www.ccacoalition.org/en/slcps/methane Simply Science Website: www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg%3Fview_as%3Dsubscriber%253Fsub_confirmation%253D1&token=5be173-1-1594998865448 Simply Science on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NRCanScience Simply Science on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Simply-Science-580046026023390 Simply Science on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplysciencenrcan/ Simply Science on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/natural-resources-canada

The Future of Sable Island Mar 16, 2021

Southeast of mainland Nova Scotia sits "Sable Island", a small crescent shaped island home to magnificent wild horses and one-of-a-kind wildlife. But with the potential impacts of climate change on sensitive coastal areas, can a small island made entirely of sand survive the forces of nature in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean? On this episode, we talk to scientists with new research examining the future of Sable Island. Recommended Links: Sable Island National Park Reserve (Parks Canada) – https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ns/sable Sable Island National Park Reserve (Parks Canada Facebook) – https://www.facebook.com/SableIslandNPR/ Geological Survey of Canada (Natural Resources Canada) – https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/science-data/research-centres-labs/geological-survey-canada/17100 Sable Island Institute – https://sableislandinstitute.org/ Friends of Sable Island – www.sableislandfriends.ca Jordan Eamer on Twitter – https://twitter.com/CoastalEamer Simply Science Website: www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg%3Fview_as%3Dsubscriber%253Fsub_confirmation%253D1&token=5be173-1-1594998865448 Simply Science on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NRCanScience Simply Science on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Simply-Science-580046026023390 Simply Science on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplysciencenrcan/ Simply Science on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/natural-resources-canada

Diversity and Inclusivity in Science Feb 23, 2021

Scientists make discoveries by building on previous discoveries made by scientists before them. But what happens when the next generation of scientists is not an accurate representation of the population? What happens when we fail to bring in fresh perspectives? On this episode, we talk about the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the world of science. Recommended Links: Inspiring minds, 17 ways to get excited about STEM - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/inspiring-minds-17-ways-get-excited-about-stem/23335 The Sweet Spot Between Petroleum and Environmental Science - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bN_oyb8a6Hs&t=1s CanmetENERGY in Devon - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy/energy-offices-and-labs/canmetenergy/5715/devon-ab-research-centre/5743 Simply Science Website: www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg%3Fview_as%3Dsubscriber%253Fsub_confirmation%253D1&token=5be173-1-1594998865448 Simply Science on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NRCanScience Simply Science on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Simply-Science-580046026023390 Simply Science on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplysciencenrcan/ Simply Science on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/natural-resources-canada

Small Modular Reactors – The Future of Nuclear Energy Dec 18, 2020

When it comes to nuclear energy, Canada has always been an innovator. This goes all the way back to 1952 with the development of the world-renowned CANDU reactor. Seventy years later, Canada is leading the charge once again. On this episode, we talk about the future of nuclear energy — small modular reactors. Photo Credit: Third Way (https://www.thirdway.org/blog/nuclear-reimagined) Recommended Links: • Nuclear: The Forgotten Clean Energy (Previous Simply Science podcast with Diane Cameron) - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/nuclear-forgotten-clean-energy/20651 • SMR Roadmap - https://smrroadmap.ca/ • Nuclear energy and uranium (Natural Resources Canada)- https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/our-natural-resources/energy-sources-distribution/nuclear-energy-uranium/7691 Simply Science Website: www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg%3Fview_as%3Dsubscriber%253Fsub_confirmation%253D1&token=5be173-1-1594998865448 Simply Science on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NRCanScience Simply Science on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Simply-Science-580046026023390 Simply Science on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplysciencenrcan/ Simply Science on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/natural-resources-canada

Discovering the Elm Zigzag Sawfly in Canada Oct 20, 2020

The elm zigzag sawfly, an exotic insect found in Asia and Europe that feeds on elm trees, has never been found in North America… that is until now. On this episode, we talk about how a photo by a nature photographer lead to the discovery of the insect on this side of the pond. Recommended Links: •Citizen scientist spots a newcomer on Canadian elm trees (Simply Science article) - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/citizen-scientist-spots-newcomer-canadian-elm-trees/23000?_ga=2.130340235.50910390.1603122913-952557420.1574967179 •Citizen Science Portal (Industry Canada) - https://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/063.nsf/eng/h_97169.html •Slowing Down the Spruce Budworm (Simply Science podcast) -https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/20299/slowing-down-spruce-budworm-ask-nrcan/22113?_ga=2.88865567.50910390.1603122913-952557420.1574967179 •International Year of Plant Health 2020 - https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/nature/science/conservation/plante-plant •Véronique Martel on Twitter - https://twitter.com/MartelVronique3 Simply Science Website: www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg%3Fview_as%3Dsubscriber%253Fsub_confirmation%253D1&token=5be173-1-1594998865448 Simply Science on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NRCanScience Simply Science on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Simply-Science-580046026023390 Simply Science on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplysciencenrcan/ Simply Science on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/natural-resources-canada

Eradicating the Asian Longhorned Beetle Oct 06, 2020

If you introduce a foreign species to a new environment, even by accident, it can wreak havoc on the ecosystem. On this episode, we talk to a scientist who has been dealing with one of these foreign species, the Asian longhorned beetle. This insect is black and white, about the same length as your thumb, and likes to get around by hitching rides on your car! Links of interest… Asian longhorned beetle (Natural Resources Canada): https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/our-natural-resources/forests-forestry/wildland-fires-insects-disturban/top-forest-insects-diseases-cana/asian-longhorned-beetle/13369 Asian longhorned beetle (Canadian Food Inspection Agency): https://www.inspection.gc.ca/plant-health/plant-pests-invasive-species/insects/asian-longhorned-beetle/eng/1337792721926/1337792820836 Simply Science Website: www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg%3Fview_as%3Dsubscriber%253Fsub_confirmation%253D1&token=5be173-1-1594998865448 Simply Science on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NRCanScience Simply Science on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Simply-Science-580046026023390 Simply Science on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplysciencenrcan/ Simply Science on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/natural-resources-canada

Restoring Damaged Forests Jul 21, 2020

Forests provide us with an array of social, economic and environmental benefits, which is why we need to ensure that they stay healthy. Things like natural disasters, pests and resource extractions can pose a problem. On this episode, we talk to a scientist who is working with industry, academia, Indigenous communities and various levels of government to reclaim and restore damaged forest landscapes. Links of interest… Land reclamation and forest science: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/our-natural-resources/forests-forestry/forest-industry-trade/land-reclamation-forest-science/17876 Simply Science content on forestry and insects: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/our-natural-resources/forests-forestry/forest-industry-trade/land-reclamation-forest-science/17876 Simply Science Website: www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://gate.sc/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fchannel%2FUCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg%3Fview_as%3Dsubscriber%253Fsub_confirmation%253D1&token=5be173-1-1594998865448

Women Fuelling the Future of Science Mar 03, 2020

Look around! Apollo 11, the smallpox vaccine, the first direct evidence of dark matter in space. These are just a few of the outstanding scientific breakthroughs made possible by women working hard behind the scenes. In this episode we look at how women have helped make science, and our world, what it is today. Do you want to be an arctic explorer, a fossil hunter or a green energy guru? Then stay tuned! International Women's Day – Status of Women Canada: https://cfc-swc.gc.ca/commemoration/iwd-jif/index-en.html NRCan Career Opportunities: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/careers CanmetENERGY in Ottawa: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy/offices-labs/canmet/ottawa-research-centre/5753 NSERC Women in Science and Engineering: https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Women-Femmes/index_eng.asp International Women’s Day: https://www.internationalwomensday.com/ Women in Science in the Government of Canada: https://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/063.nsf/eng/h_97436.html Simply Science: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg?view_as=subscriber%3Fsub_confirmation%3D1

Digging Up Dirt on the Spruce Budworm Feb 04, 2020

The spruce budworm is an insect that eats the needles of fir and spruce, weakening the trees an putting them at risk for disease or even death. As if that wasn't enough, researchers are now looking at the potential impact that spruce budworm outbreaks could have on climate change. On today's episode: killer insects, scientific collaboration and elaborate cheese plates… Slowing Down the Spruce Budworm (podcast) - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/slowing-down-spruce-budworm-ask-nrcan/22113 Eat, Prey, Love – Stopping the Spruce Budworm (article) - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/20681 Healthy Forest Partnership - http://healthyforestpartnership.ca/ Spruce Budworm – NRCan Website - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/our-natural-resources/forests-forestry/wildland-fires-insects-disturban/top-forest-insects-diseases-cana/spruce-budworm/13383 Soil Carbon - https://soilcarbon.org/ Simply Science: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg?view_as=subscriber%3Fsub_confirmation%3D1

Changing How We Fight Wildfires Jan 21, 2020

Today, we hear from someone who started his career by fighting fires on the ground. Now, he’s turned his sights to the sky. We’re about to find out how a satellite the size of a dishwasher could radically change the way we fight fires in Canada. WildFireSat: Enhancing Canada's ability to manage wildfires, Canadian Space Agency – https://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/satellites/wildfiresat/default.asp Forest Fires, Natural Resources Canada – https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/our-natural-resources/forests-forestry/wildland-fires-insects-disturban/forest-fires/13143 Simply Science: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg?view_as=subscriber%3Fsub_confirmation%3D1

Research in the Arctic (Natural Elements) Dec 17, 2019

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to conduct research up North? Like, way up North, in the middle of the Arctic, in the middle of nowhere up North? David Mate from the Polar Continental Shelf Program joins us to talk about how his team supports nearly 1,000 people per year to conduct scientific research in some of the most extreme conditions. Polar Continental Shelf Program – https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/science-data/science-research/arctic-science/polar-continental-shelf-program/10003 Arctic Logistics Hub in Resolute, Nunavut – https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/science-and-data/science-and-research/arctic-science/polar-continental-shelf-program/arctic-logistics-hub/9993 Simply Science: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg?view_as=subscriber%3Fsub_confirmation%3D1

Making your home more energy-efficient (Ask NRcan) Dec 03, 2019

We received a lot of feedback from listeners who are interested in energy efficiency and curious about what they can do to make their existing home more energy-efficient. We decided to bring back Chris McLellan from the Office of Energy Efficiency to discuss getting better performance and comfort out of your home. The Future of Energy Efficiency for Homes (Ask NRCan) - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/21703 Energy efficiency for homes - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy-efficiency/energy-efficiency-homes/20546 EnerGuide in Canada - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy-efficiency/energuide/12523 Simply Science: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg?view_as=subscriber%3Fsub_confirmation%3D1

Learning From Tragedy – The 1929 Tsunami (Ask NRCan) Nov 18, 2019

Marine geoscientist Calvin Campbell joins us to talk about the importance of a specific underwater landslide that caused a massive tsunami in Newfoundland back in 1929. Calvin is part of a team studying this historical landslide, and shares with us recent findings that changed our perception of the event. Recommended Links - The 1929 Magnitude 7.2 "Grand Banks" earthquake and tsunami - http://earthquakescanada.nrcan.gc.ca/historic-historique/events/19291118-en.php - Earthquakes Canada - http://earthquakescanada.nrcan.gc.ca/index-en.php - GEOSCAN Database - https://geoscan.nrcan.gc.ca/geoscan-index.html Other related products on Simply Science: - The Dangers of Underwater Landslides (Ask NRCan) - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/21657 Simply Science: www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg?view_as=subscriber%3Fsub_confirmation%3D1

Can We Predict Earthquakes? (Ask NRcan) Sep 10, 2019

This episode is all about earthquakes. We are joined by seismologist John Cassidy who explains what causes earthquakes, where they are more likely to occur, and he answers the big question: “can we predict them?” Recommended Links: -Earthquakes Canada - http://earthquakescanada.nrcan.gc.ca/index-en.php -BC Shakeout - https://www.shakeoutbc.ca/ John Cassidy on Twitter - https://twitter.com/earthquakeguy Other earthquake-related products on Simply Science: -When the earth whispers… - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/20478 -The Mystery of the Missing Village - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/20504 -Earthquakes: shaking the foundations of popular misconceptions - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/21460 -Newspaper archives detail 1855 quake that shook the Maritimes - https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/21869 Simply Science: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg?view_as=subscriber%3Fsub_confirmation%3D1

Saving Our Ash Trees (Natural Elements) Aug 20, 2019

For the past two decades, ash trees have been under attack by a tiny, yet formidable foe – the emerald ash borer. This invasive pest has already killed tens of millions of ash trees and shows no signs of letting up. On this episode, we are speaking with an expert that is conserving ash seeds for future restoration activities. Recommended Links: -National Tree Seed Centre – https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/science-data/research-centres-labs/forestry-research-centres/atlantic-forestry-centre/national-tree-seed-centre/13449 Other related products on Simply Science: -Fighting the emerald ash borer with science – https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/21144 -Seeds that Succeed – https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science/20730 Simply Science: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg?view_as=subscriber%3Fsub_confirmation%3D1

Incorporating Artificial Intelligence (Ask NRcan) Aug 06, 2019

Like many organizations, the Government of Canada is exploring ways to incorporate artificial intelligence into our work to make us more efficient and effective. On this episode, we’ll learn what artificial intelligence is, and we’ll see how it can be used to solve problems that the natural resource sectors are facing. CIFAR Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy: https://www.cifar.ca/ai/pan-canadian-artificial-intelligence-strategy Government of Canada Digital Standards: https://www.canada.ca/en/government/system/digital-government/government-canada-digital-standards.html Responsible use of artificial intelligence: https://www.canada.ca/en/government/system/digital-government/modern-emerging-technologies/responsible-use-ai.html Report to the Clerk of the Privy Council: A Data Strategy Roadmap for the Federal Public Service: https://www.canada.ca/en/privy-council/corporate/clerk/publications/data-strategy.html Plans at a glance (NRCan): https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/plans-performance-reports/dp/2018-19/20769 Intro to AI for Policymakers: Understanding the shift (Brookfield Institute): https://brookfieldinstitute.ca/report/intro-to-ai-for-policymakers/ Montreal Declaration Responsible AI: https://www.montrealdeclaration-responsibleai.com/ Simply Science: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg?view_as=subscriber%3Fsub_confirmation%3D1

What Type of Batteries do Electric Vehicles Use? (Natural Elements) Jul 16, 2019

Have you ever wondered exactly what’s under the hood of an electric vehicle? Specifically, what kind of batteries do they use and how different are they from the ones you find in a gas-powered vehicle? Research engineer Kathleen Lombardi answers our pressing questions about electric vehicle batteries. Buying an electric vehicle (Natural Resources Canada) – https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy/efficiency/energy-efficiency-transportation-and-alternative-fuels/choosing-right-vehicle/buying-electric-vehicle/21034 Zero-emission vehicles (Transport Canada – https://www.tc.gc.ca/en/services/road/innovative-technologies/zero-emission-vehicles.html Batteries for Hybrid and Plug-In Electric Vehicles (U.S. Department of Energy) – https://afdc.energy.gov/vehicles/electric_batteries.html A comprehensive review of lithium-ion batteries used in hybrid and electric vehicles at cold temperatures (Science Direct) – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306261915014841 Eight Tips to Extend Battery Life of Your Electric Car (PluginCars) – https://www.plugincars.com/eight-tips-extend-battery-life-your-electric-car-107938.html How Lithium-Ion Batteries Age: Scientists Offer Insight (Green Car Reports) – https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1091003_how-lithium-ion-batteries-age-scientists-offer-insight Simply Science: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg?view_as=subscriber%3Fsub_confirmation%3D1

Discovering microfossils that are a BILLION years old (Ask NRCan) Jul 02, 2019

During a geological mapping expedition to the western Canadian Arctic in 2014, research scientist Rob Rainbird collected samples that yielded microfossils of a species of fungus that is about one billion years old. Rob joins us to share his experience in the field, as well as discuss his discovery. Geo-mapping for Energy and Minerals (GEM): https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/earth-sciences/resources/federal-programs/geomapping-energy-minerals/18215 Research Gate – Robert H. Rainbird: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Robert_Rainbird Rob’s Canoe Trip Through Time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lfc5zmXJJwQ&list=PLubfjRTPezhhhKoZDyJSchIAaYIQNWezA&index=14&t=0s Simply Science: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg?view_as=subscriber%3Fsub_confirmation%3D1 Photo courtesy of Rob Rainbird

Activating the RADARSAT Constellation Mission (Natural Elements) Jun 21, 2019

With Canada’s newest generation of radar satellites successfully launched, it is now up to Natural Resources Canada to establish communication. Our experts will help activate the three satellites so that they can start capturing images. Find out how on this episode of Natural Elements. Canada Centre for Remote Sensing: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/science-and-data/research-centres-and-labs/canada-centre-remote-sensing/21749 RADARSAT Constellation Mission – NRCan’s Role: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/radarsat-constellation-mission/21831 RADARSAT Constellation Mission (Canadian Space Agency): http://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/satellites/radarsat/ Simply Science: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/simply-science Simply Science YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNbgD_ZfyM6lh1KbemOKfeg?view_as=subscriber%3Fsub_confirmation%3D1 Photo courtesy of the Canadian Space Agency

Slowing Down the Spruce Budworm (Ask NRCan) Jun 11, 2019

The spruce budworm is a notorious forest pest that has been causing havoc in recent years in Eastern Canada. It feeds on new foliage from spruce and fir trees, often killing them in the process. Rob Johns from the Canadian Forest Service joins us to talk about the measures taken to slow down the spruce budworm outbreak. Healthy Forest Partnership: http://www.healthyforestpartnership.ca/

Discovering Glass Sponge Reefs (Ask NRCan) May 31, 2019

In the 1980s, scientist Kim Conway was part of an expedition to map the continental shelf in the Pacific Ocean. During this mission, he made a fascinating and unexpected discovery – unique reefs that were long thought to be extinct. Kim explains the significance of this discovery and what it means for science. Hecate Strait/Queen Charlotte Sound Glass Sponge Reefs Marine Protected Area: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/oceans/mpa-zpm/hecate-charlotte/index-eng.html Strait of Georgia and Howe Sound Glass Sponge Reef Conservation Initiative: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/oceans/ceccsr-cerceef/closures-fermetures-eng.html

Researching Forest Fires (Natural Elements) May 21, 2019

Managing forest fires is all about balancing the good and the bad. Richard Carr from the Canadian Forest Service explains the type of research that Natural Resources Canada conducts to better understand forest fires and help manage both the risks and benefits. Canadian Wildland Fire Information System: http://cwfis.cfs.nrcan.gc.ca/home Forest Fires – Natural Resources Canada: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/forests/fire-insects-disturbances/fire/13143 FireSmart Canada: https://www.firesmartcanada.ca/

The Potential of Renewable Hydrogen (Ask NRCan) May 07, 2019

Research scientist Peter Gogolek explains to us what is renewable hydrogen, how it is used by the energy sector, as well as how it can help Canada lower its carbon footprint.

Using Satellites to Monitor Floods (Natural Elements) Apr 16, 2019

In the first episode of our new series Natural Elements, Simon Tolszczuk-Leclerc from Natural Resources Canada’s Emergency Geomatics Service explains how we use satellite imagery to monitor flooding. This information is valuable to first responders and local governments managing flood risks. Floods and river ice break-up: www.nrcan.gc.ca/hazards/floods Get Prepared: www.getprepared.gc.ca/index-en.aspx

Science at the North Pole (Ask NRCan) Apr 02, 2019

On this episode of “Ask NRCan,” research scientist David Mosher talks about his experiences travelling to the North on a Canadian Coast Guard icebreaker to map the Arctic Ocean floor.

The Future of Energy Efficiency for Homes (Ask NRCan) Mar 06, 2019

On this episode of “Ask NRCan,” engineer Chris McLellan talks about the next generation of energy efficient homes in Canada.

The Dangers of Underwater Landslides (Ask NRCan) Dec 19, 2018

On this episode of “Ask NRCan,” research scientist Alexandre Normandeau talks about his work on underwater landslides and their impacts on coastal communities.

Back to basics - building with wood (Ask NRCan) Oct 25, 2018

On this episode of AskNRCan, our experts explain how we’re working to increase the use of wood in non-traditional buildings like high-rises, commercial box stores, bridges and more.

Are bioplastics better than regular plastics? (Ask NRCan) Sep 18, 2018

Experts Peter Gogolek and Jean-François Levasseur discuss bioplastics, a type of plastic made from renewable biomass sources like vegetable fats and oils, straw, and woodchips. Are bioplastics truly better than petroleum based plastics? Listen to find out.

Impact Of Climate Change On Forest Fires (AskNRCan) Aug 29, 2018

Scientists Yan Boulanger and Sylvie Gauthier talk about how forest fire behavior and frequency are impacted by a changing climate.

The science of diluted bitumen (Ask NRCan) Jul 30, 2018

On this episode of AskNRCan, scientist Heather Dettman sits down with us to discuss her work with diluted bitumen to improve the transportation of crude oil and better understand how oil spills behave in water.

Why are rare earth elements important? (Ask NRCan) Mar 05, 2018

Rare earth elements are found in just about every type of high-tech device from smart phones to electric vehicles. In this episode of our Ask NRCan podcast, we sit down with expert Janice Zinck to discuss what rare earth elements are, why they are important and what type of research Natural Resources Canada is doing to help Canadian industry.

Nuclear: The Forgotten Clean Energy (Ask NRCan) Feb 22, 2018

In this episode, Diane Cameron and Dave McCauley discuss how nuclear energy will play a key role in meeting our international climate targets.

Demystifying Electric Vehicles (AskNRCan) Jan 09, 2018

In this episode of Ask NRCan, Yves Madore talks about the most common misconceptions surrounding electric vehicles, from infrastructure to distance to charge time.

The Impacts of Climate Change on Northern Infrastructure (Ask NRCan) Dec 13, 2017

In this episode of Ask NRCan, we talk to research scientist Peter Morse about climate change geoscience and permafrost research in the North.

Pipeline Materials Research (Ask NRCan) May 09, 2017

In this edition of Ask NRCan, we discuss advanced material research for pipeline use with Philippe Dauphin, Director General of CanmetMATERIALS.

Pipelines 101 (Ask NRCan) Apr 04, 2017

In this edition of Ask NRCan, researcher John Foran takes us through the basics of pipelines in Canada.

Traditional Knowledge (Ask NRCan) Dec 23, 2016

Dr. Jennifer Galloway explains how scientists rely on traditional knowledge to complement and supplement the scientific work conducted at NRCan.

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